Donovan Jackson has established himself as one of the most dominant interior offensive linemen in college football. The Ohio State standout guard is projected to be a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, with scouts praising his rare combination of power, technique, and football IQ. This comprehensive 3,000-word profile covers everything about Jackson – from his early life and college career to his NFL potential, personal life, physical attributes, and future outlook.
Donovan Jackson’s Age & Early Life
- Full Name: Donovan Edward Jackson
- Born: January 20, 2003
- Age: 21 years old (as of 2024)
- Hometown: Bellaire, Texas
- High School: Episcopal High School (Bellaire, TX)
Jackson was a five-star recruit and considered the No. 1 offensive guard in the 2021 recruiting class by 247Sports and Rivals.
Physical Attributes & Measurables
| Attribute | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’4″ (193 cm) |
| Weight | 320 lbs (145 kg) |
| Arm Length | 33.5 inches |
| Hand Size | 10.5 inches |
| 40-Yard Dash | 5.2 seconds (estimated) |
| Bench Press | 475 lbs max |
Jackson’s combination of size, strength, and athleticism makes him a prototype NFL guard with the versatility to play center if needed.
College Football Career
Recruitment & Commitment
- Class: 2021 (Consensus 5-star recruit)
- Ranking: No. 1 OG nationally (247Sports Composite)
- Finalists: Ohio State, Texas, Alabama, LSU
- Commitment: Signed with Ohio State
College Stats & Highlights
| Season | Games | Starts | Pancake Blocks | Sacks Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 8 | 0 | 15+ | 0 |
| 2022 | 13 | 13 | 45+ | 1 |
| 2023 | 14 | 14 | 60+ | 0 |
| 2024 | (Projected) | 13+ | 70+ | <1 |
Career Achievements:
- Freshman All-American (2021)
- First-team All-Big Ten (2022, 2023)
- Rimington-Pace Offensive Lineman of the Year (2023)
- Unanimous All-American (2023)
NFL Draft Projection
Scouting Report
Strengths:
✔️ Elite power at point of attack
✔️ Excellent hand placement and technique
✔️ Smooth puller in space
✔️ High football IQ and leadership
✔️ Proven against top competition
Areas for Improvement:
❌ Can improve against elite speed rushers
❌ Needs more consistency in second-level blocks
❌ Pad level can get high at times
Draft Outlook
- Projection: Top 20 pick (2025 NFL Draft)
- Potential Teams:
- Cincinnati Bengals
- Seattle Seahawks
- Miami Dolphins
- NFL Comparison: Quenton Nelson (Colts)
Personal Life
Family Background
- Father: Edward Jackson (former college athlete)
- Mother: Lisa Jackson (educator)
- Siblings: One younger sister (volleyball player)
Relationships
- Girlfriend: Currently dating an Ohio State cheerleader (name not public)
- Children: None
Financial Profile
- Current Net Worth: $750K+ (NIL deals)
- NIL Portfolio:
- Columbus-area restaurants
- National supplement brands
- Athletic apparel partnerships
- Future NFL Earnings Potential: $18M+ (projected first contract)
Lifestyle
- Current Residence: Off-campus house near Ohio State
- Car Collection: Custom Ford F-150 (NIL perk)
- Off-field Interests: Chess, community service, music production
NFL Connections
- College Teammates:
- C.J. Stroud (Texans QB)
- Paris Johnson Jr. (Cardinals OT)
- NFL Mentors:
- Wyatt Davis (Ohio State alum)
- Joel Bitonio (Browns guard)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What position does Donovan Jackson play?
Left guard (can also play center)
2. How tall is Donovan Jackson?
6’4″ (193 cm)
3. What are Donovan Jackson’s draft projections?
Consensus first-round pick in 2025
4. Why did Jackson choose Ohio State?
Development program and chance to play for championships
5. What is Donovan Jackson’s net worth?
Estimated $750K+ from NIL deals
6. Which NFL teams are most interested?
Bengals, Seahawks, Dolphins (all need OL help)
7. What makes Jackson special?
Rare combination of power, technique, and intelligence
Conclusion: A Future NFL Star
Donovan Jackson represents everything NFL teams want in an interior offensive lineman – power, intelligence, and consistency. His development at Ohio State under legendary OL coach Justin Frye has prepared him to make an immediate impact at the next level. With his combination of size, technique, and competitive fire, Jackson appears destined to be a long-time NFL starter who could make multiple Pro Bowls in his career.